Words: Ged Carter, We Love MCR
The discreet networking Dinner at The Lowry was my first Downtown Dinner – and I wasn’t disappointed. On a practical note, I met some very interesting people over the drinks reception, and was placed at Dinner next to a contact that I’m developing a relationship with, so this was time-well-spent.
Enough of the practicalities! After eating, we were treated to an In Conversation between Frank and Sir Howard Bernstein, who appear clearly to be in a long-standing mutual admiration club. The relationship of trust was clear, which I think encouraged Sir Howard to be very candid in his comments. (We Love MCR Charity is blessed to count Sir Howard as an Ambassador for our work).
So, what did you miss if you weren’t in the room? An honest, succinct, and frank review of what drove and drives Manchester’s continuing renaissance, and what challenges we now face. Plus, a fair sprinkling of opinions (positive and negative) on some of the current crop of leading politicians. This was all revealed through a review of Northern Powerhouse to date, including the lack of apparent commitment from the current PM; an explanation of the false dichotomy of the Cities Vs Towns debate; a walk through the essential connections needed for regional success – including collaboration, investment, continuity, infrastructure, culture, and digital strength. And lots, lots more.
And if you want to know Sir Howard’s views of the current Levelling Up strategy, the real and present dangers to the Union of the UK, and whether Pep Guardiola will sign a new contract to continue as manager of MCFC – well you really needed to be in the room. On the basis of my first Downtown Dinner – it won’t be my last.
